Second rabies case surfaces

The detached head of a raccoon found in the Catalpa Circle neighborhood has tested positive for rabies, the second incidence of the rare disease in a month in Holden.

Health Agent Andrea Crete said there is no evidence of how the raccoon died or what happened to the rest of the body, but the head was sent to the state lab for analysis.

A rabid skunk was killed by dogs on Wachusett Street about a month ago and tested positive for rabies, the first case since 1996.

“Since there have been two positive cases about a month apart, I’m assuming that there are probably more. Especially at this time, you want to follow the guidelines,” Crete said.

That means being extra vigilant about avoiding contact with wild animals, including bats, and being on alert if they come to humans and domestic pets. Animals and people can be infected by a bite or scratch from an infected animal, or from contact with the saliva.

Residents are advised first and foremost to have their pets vaccinated.